The University of Massachusetts Boston, or UMass Boston, is located in the largest city in New England and the capital of Massachusetts. Featuring a beautiful oceanfront campus on Boston Harbor, this university hosts students from more than 135 countries. Its six colleges offer around 285 degree and certificate programs, which cater to the diverse learning needs of students.
UMass Boston is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and is recognized as one of the most diverse universities in the United States. Ranked among the top global universities, it features state-of-the-art research facilities with a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1.
Dreaming of studying on a beautiful campus that fuels your ambition? Join us as we discuss what makes the University of Massachusetts Boston MA, the best choice for you!
About the University Of Massachusetts Boston
To address the demand for higher education, the Massachusetts Legislature established the University of Massachusetts Boston in 1964. Since then, it has created a distinctive identity as the only public research university located in Boston. UMass Boston’s ten colleges now serve more than 16,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
What makes UMass Boston truly extraordinary is its position as the most diverse university campus in New England. In 2025, the U.S. News and World Report ranked it as 214th among the top national universities. UMass Boston students also benefit from proximity to downtown Boston, where they can explore the Freedom Trail, Quincy Market, and the Boston Museum of Science.
As an R1 research institution, the university invests in cutting-edge research and innovation, providing students with access to specialized programs and opportunities. With modern laboratories and expert faculty, students are encouraged to lead or collaborate on projects aligned with their passions.
University Of Massachusetts Boston Admission Requirements
To provide you with a complete guide for college applications, we have listed all the admission requirements for UMass Boston graduate programs and undergraduate degrees.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Fill out either the UMass Boston application or the Common App, including your personal essay.
- Pay the University of Massachusetts Boston cost of $60 (or request a waiver if eligible).
- Submit official high school transcripts or proof of high school equivalency (GED or HiSET).
- If you are still in school, provide an in-progress transcript showing grades 9-11 and your current senior courses; final senior grades can follow once available.
- If you have already graduated, send your final transcript with your graduation date.
- Include SAT or ACT scores, unless you choose the test-optional policy.
- Provide one letter of recommendation from a teacher or your school counselor.
- Demonstrate English proficiency if English isn’t your first language; the required scores are:
Graduate Admission Requirements
- Select your intended graduate studies UMass Boston and check its specific criteria and deadlines.
- Complete the online application and pay the $75 application fee.
- Upload unofficial transcripts from any college where you’ve earned more than 6 credits. After enrollment, submit the official transcripts.
- Maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA (some programs may require a higher or subject-specific GPA).
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- If your program requires GRE or GMAT scores, have official results sent to UMass Boston (institution code: 3924).
- International students must demonstrate degree equivalency and meet English proficiency standards (TOEFL or IELTS, using institution code 3924).
- Submit the required number of recommendation letters from professors or professionals familiar with your academic and research abilities.
- Write a Statement of Purpose (around 1,500 words) detailing your graduate goals and research interests.
- Include an up-to-date resume or CV outlining your education, work history, research, publications, and relevant skills.
University Of Massachusetts Boston Application Deadlines
The University of Massachusetts Boston offers multiple application deadlines to accommodate different student needs and ensure you have the best opportunity to join its community:
Undergraduate Application Deadlines
The deadlines for the undergraduate programs at UMass Boston are:
Graduate Application Deadlines
The summer, fall, and spring deadlines for the academic year 2025-206 for UMass Boston graduate degrees are:
How to Apply to the University Of Massachusetts Boston
Once you have figured out your career path and job aspirations, the next step is to choose a program that will lead to your success. To apply for any University of Massachusetts Boston degrees, here are the necessary steps you must follow:
Step 1: Log In or Register: If you are a former student of the University of Massachusetts Boston, log in to your existing account on the official website. First-time users must register to create a login ID.
Step 2: Complete Your Application: Submit your application through the Common Application or UMass Boston's application portal.
Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents: Gather all required documents and upload them to the website or send them to the official address. These include transcripts, standardized test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, essays, and personal statements.
Step 4: Pay Application Fee: Submit the non-refundable application fee.
Step 5: Track Your Application: After paying the fee, check your application status on the portal and upload any additional documents, if applicable.
University Of Massachusetts Boston Tuition Fees
As one of the best universities in Boston, UMass Boston tuition reflects the quality of its academic programs and campus facilities. Below, we have listed the estimated regular session (2025–2026) UMass Boston tuition and fees for undergraduate and graduate students. However, actual costs may vary depending on your chosen program.
Undergraduate Tuition and Fees (2025-2026)
Graduate Tuition and Fees (Fall 2024/Spring 2025)
Scholarship Opportunities at the University of Massachusetts Boston
The University of Massachusetts Boston offers different types of financial aid to support students from diverse backgrounds. These include:
Finding Your Home Away From Home Near UMass Boston
The University of Massachusetts Boston represents an opportunity to transform your aspirations into reality. The scenic 177-acre Columbia Point campus overlooking Boston Harbor offers the perfect blend of academic excellence and vibrant city access.
However, your time at UMass Boston is not limited to the classroom. Finding a suitable place to live while pursuing your goals is just as important as your academic success. To place you at the center of Boston's academic and cultural life, Amber connects you with cozy UMass Boston dorm alternatives.
Make your aspirations of attending UMass Boston a reality. Explore UMass Boston housing that places you in the heart of Boston's metropolitan environment and academic success today!
Check out some of the best housing properties for UMass Boston students: